[Occupation and carpal tunnel syndrome].

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), compression of the median nerve at the carpal tunnel of the wrist, is the most common of all entrapment syndromes. Diabetes, Rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroidism and pregnancy are known to cause CTS. And certain occupations were been reported the risk factor of CTS. We report two patients with occupationally induced CTS, and discuss the relation between the development of CTS and occupation with reference to previous papers. Occupations that appear to promote CTS were classified in to three groups: jobs entailing the use of vibratory tools, assembly work and food processing and packing. These occupations involved repeated flexion and extension of the wrist. The prevalence of CTS was related to not only repetitive work but also forceful work involving the wrist. Both occupational and non-occupational factors (gender, age, body mass index, thyroid function and diabetes mellitus) were considered risk factors for CTS. The prevalence of CTS in Visual Display Terminal (VDT) workers was not high compared to that in control groups. If the cause of CTS is considered to be due to an occupational factor, the patient would be eligible workmen's compensation, and should be suspended from work as soon as possible. It has been reported that assembly line workers showed resolution of symptoms and normal nerve conduction studies after 2 years of a reduced work schedule. Treatment for CTS should begin early. When these workers return to work, the environment and the condition of work should be improved to prevent recurrence.